One notable issue of the meeting was the ongoing controversy surrounding the school district’s book policy, which many community members argue limits students’ access to diverse educational materials. Nine individuals spoke during the public comment section, voicing their concerns about the impacts of the policy. Tyler Johnson, a community member, expressed support for those challenging the policy and highlighted the importance of student advocacy in the lawsuit filed against the book restrictions. He emphasized that preserving access to literature is important for educational growth.

Izzy Bongard, a sophomore at St. Francis High School, shared her perspective on the significance of literature that tackles complex topics, arguing that such works are essential for students’ self-discovery and understanding of the world. She urged the board to recognize the value of literature that promotes imagination and creativity, drawing a parallel to the high school’s performance of “Seussical,” which symbolizes these attributes.

Other speakers, including Nikki Cruz, a parent, and Brian Vonger, echoed the sentiment that the book policy disregards community input and silences diverse voices. They called for a more transparent and inclusive policy that respects the rights of parents and students to make informed choices about their reading materials. Chris B, another participant, shared a personal narrative about the importance of representation in literature, arguing that exposure to diverse experiences is vital for students’ development.

The recurring theme among speakers was a call for the school board to reconsider the book policy, emphasizing the need for inclusivity and respect for community voices.

The meeting also addressed the school district’s nutrition program, focusing on the quality of food offered to students. Concerns were raised about the reliance on processed foods, with a strong desire expressed for healthier options. The board discussed the prime vendor contract for school lunches, acknowledging the need for more fresh food choices and the financial implications of these changes. The district sources most of its fresh produce through a contract with the Department of Defense, which limits options to American-grown products. The conversation included advocating for the reinstatement of farm-to-school funding, which had been cut at the federal level, resulting in Minnesota losing substantial financial support.

In addition to the book policy and nutrition concerns, the meeting provided updates on insurance rates for the 2025-2026 school year. The insurance advisory committee reported a rare decrease in health insurance premiums, contrasting with an increase in dental insurance costs due to inflation and higher claims. The board expressed appreciation for the committee’s efforts in managing these programs and maintaining a stable insurance environment for employees.

Technology funding challenges were also a topic of discussion, with acknowledgment of the significant lag in financial support over the past decade due to budget cuts. The need for equipment replacement has become urgent, and efforts are underway to develop a new budget to address these needs. The board recognized the dedication of staff who have managed to keep the technology system operational despite limited resources.

The board also approved several policies following a brief discussion, with plans for future work sessions to address topics such as student assessment data, district improvement policy, and updates on the nutrition program.